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THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 



A Drama, in Four Acts, 

{For Male Characters Only.) 



With Stage Directions, 

Cast of Characters, Relative Positions, Etc., Etc., Etc. 




Edited and Published by 



J©Seph R. LiY©R3, M. 'ffl. 



NOTRE DAME, INDIANA 

UNIVERSITY PRESS. 
1884. 




THE 



PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 

A Drama, in Four Acts, 

(jFor Male Characters Only.) 



By A. L. v . ^. s 



\ ■ v k * 



With Stage IDirections, 

Cast of Characters, Relative Positions, Etc., Etc., Etc. 



?^> 



Edited and Published by ^V 



University of Notre Dame, Indiana, 



SEP 23 1884, 



NOTRE DAME, INDIANA : 

UNIVERSITY PRESS. 
1884. 



:*1 



s^ 5 """ 



Copyright by J. A. LYONS. 

1884. ' 



Jb, , 



SYNOPSIS OF SCENES. 



ACT I. 

The Student's brilliant, but brief career. 

ACT II. 
Boston— Mr. Martin's home — Distress of an aged Parent. 

ACT III. 

An Embarkation and a Duel— Fate of the treacherous Miser 

ACT IV. 

. The Prodigal reformed— His triumphant return. 

Tableaux. 



Time of representation, i hour and 40 minutes. Costumes Modern. 



STAGE DIRECTIONS. 



(The reader is supposed to be on the stage, facing the audience.) 

EXITS AND ENTRANCES. 
R. means Right; L., Left; R. D., Right Door; L. D., Left Door; 
S. E., Second Entrance; U. E., Uj>j»er Entrance; M. D, Middle Door. 

RELATIVE POSITIONS. 
R. means Right; L., Left; C, Centre; R. C, Right of Centre; L. C. 
Left of Centre. 



DRAMATIS PERSON/E. 



Frederick, A Law Student. 

Mr. Martin, his Father. 

Angelo, his Brother. 

Alfred, his Friend. 

Tightfist, A Wall-street Broker. 

Mr. Richards, A Friend of Mr. Martin. 

Professor Allgood, Teacher of Angelo. 

Gen. Watson, U. S. A., Commander of Zouaves. 

Harry, ^ 

i ' \- Friends of Frederick. 



Foster, 

EUGENE,J 

Phineas, A Visitor from the Emerald Isle. 

Dr. Fuzby, A Surgeon. 

Admiral Ross, U. S. N. 

Captain Henderson, U. S. N. 

Jesse, ~"| 

Jake, j 

Bob, [-Attendants. 

Spenser, 

Samuel, J 

1st Newsboy, 2d Newsboy; 1st Citizen, 2d Citizen. 

1st Sailor, 2d Sailor, 3d Sailor. 

Officers, Zouaves, Mariners, Citizens, etc. 



PREFACE. 



T 



HE Prodigal Law Student is intended as a dramatic representation 
of the dangers to which even the virtuous are subject, and is designed 
to impress the beautiful lesson of expiation, the only path whereby the 
faults of ignorance and thoughtlessness can be worthily effaced. 

Frederick Martin, the son of a well-to-do Bostonian, has been placed 
in a Law School, located in the city of New York. Succeeding in his 
studies, praised by his teachers, nattered and admired by his associates, 
on account of his superior talents, with the impetuosity of his ardent nat- 
ure and the imprudence of youth, he finds, when too late for him to re- 
trace his steps, that his love of pleasure has betrayed him, and that, by 
extravagant expenditures, he has involved himself so deeply in debt that 
he is unable to extricate himself. The discovery is not made known to 
him, however, before his father has come into possession of a knowledge 
of the facts. With the most perfect confidence in the integrity, the 
honesty, of his son's character, Mr. Ma-tin comes to the city to pay him 
a visit. Not finding him in New York, he is directed to Hoboken, 
where Frederick, with a party of young friends, is enjoying a banquet 
at his own expense. When his father is announced his painful embarrass- 
ment induces his companions to propose that Mr. Martin shall be led to 
believe that the feast is chargeable to "Lieutenant Harcourt"— a name 
assumed by one of them, and that Frederick is only an invited guest. 
The old gentleman is completely deceived by the ruse, and attributes the 
evident excitement of his son to anything but the true cause, while 
Tightfist the broker, who has been dodging in and out, by an "aside" 
explains the true state of the case. The broker, in the Fourth Scene of 
Act First, declares his determination to sell the old man's property in 
order to indemnify himself for money lent by him to Frederick, and the 
youth, though with painful emotion, in conversation with his father, 
tacitly sustains the ruse, and leaves his poor old father under the impres- 
sion that his son is a paragon of intelligence, virtue, and prudence. In 
the following scene an interview takes place between the broker and his 
victim, who states the case in its true light, and bitterly reproaches Tight- 
fist with his cruelty in taking advantage of his own inexperience. 

The Second Act finds us in the city of Boston. Mr. Martin relates to 



VI PREFACE. 



his friend Mr. Richards the circumstances attending his visit, as they 
appeared to his partial understanding, and the cool judgment of Mr. 
Richards takes the alarm at the mere mention of the " feast," but is un- 
able to shake the confidence of the unwitting father. The happiness of 
the peaceful home in Boston is strikingly revealed by a scene between 
Angelo, the younger brother of Frederick, and his amiable teacher Pro- 
fessor Allgood, where the affectionate esteem in which Frederick is held 
is touchingly displayed. Upon this domestic quiet, this paradise of. a happy 
home circle, the dark form of the Wall-street broker intrudes. In this scene 
Mr. Martin is made acquainted with the bitter reality. The sudden re- 
vulsion of his feelings is so terrible that all the eloquence of his friend 
Mr. Richards is barely sufficient to impress that resignation which his 
strong Christian faith, at last, obliges Mr. Martin to acknowledge. The 
Scene Fourth, of Act Second, presents Frederick in New York City, a 
little after midnight, about to take the train for Boston, in order to fore- 
stall Tightfist. He has determined to be his own accuser, and to throw 
himself on the mercy of the father he has so deeply injured. He stands 
a moment before the church, just as the clock strikes two, but he pauses 
only to exclaim: "The church! I cannot go there now! My heart is 
broken. There is no rest for me but at my father's feet," and the Scene 
closes. In Scene Sixth an interview takes place between father and son, 
in which the latter is driven forth from home. 

In Act Third, Scene First, we behold an ocean steamer, a noble man- 
of-war, about to embark on an important expedition to the Japanese seas, 
and this is followed by a scene in which old Mr. Martin is trundling a 
wheelbarrow, down at the wharf, in Boston. The broker appears, and 
soliloquizes on the disposition he is about to make of his newly acquired 
fortune, but is interrupted by a sudden and violent encounter with Phin- 
eas, a friend of Frederick Martin's, who drives him off the stage. The 
Prodigal Law Student had already entered the Navy, for his wounded 
spirit could not rest on land when his father's property was sacrificed to 
meet his own foolish expenditures. Farther on, the grasping miser 
Tightfist is met by friends of Frederick, who, with the impetuosity of 
passion, determine to avenge the injury done to their cherished friend. 
The sordid man is challenged to mortal combat, and falls, never more to 
rise, never more to commit the like cruelty upon other unsuspecting 
youths. 

Finally, after a series of daring exploits and wonderful successes, Freder- 
ick Martin returns to the city of Boston, an avowed hero. He meets his 
father and brother at the wharf, and they are the happy witnesses of his 
promotion from the office of Lieutenant to that of Captain. With fortune, 
fame, and an unsullied record, Captain Frederick Martin returns to his 
home. His first fault is nobly expiated ; he lives to show the power of 



PREFACE. 



Vll 



an upright will, in making reparation for the past, and in proving that the 
only wise manner in which to drown sorrow for our follies is to amend 
with persevering resolution. God will accept our good will, and with His 
approval there can be nothing difficult or impossible. 

Gen. Watson, in the closing act, eloquently refers to the motives 
which guided, the hopes which stimulated, the unswerving faith which 
actuated our hero from first to last, in his career after he had entered the 
Navy. Chance did not earn his triumph, but the tender Providence, who 
clothes the lilies of the field, and pilots the sparrows on the sea of ether, 
did not reject his hearty penitence. 




The Prodigal Law Student 



ACT FIRST. 



SCENE I. 

A Grove in the Suburbs of a large City, near a fine Residence. Table 

Spread for a Feast. 

(Enter, l. 2 e., Jake, Bob, Phine as, Spenser and Samuel.) 

Bob (placing the plates). Mighty fine day for Master 
Fred! He is a lucky chap! 

Spenser (with a significant twist of the head). Lucky- 
enough if he has a long purse! 

Samuel (coming forward, places his arms akimbo). Out 
upon you! What business is that to you? There is little 
likelihood that he would get up a feast like this if he had not 
plenty of chink; and old Tightfist, the miser, is too sharp not 
to secure himself on that point, you better believe! 

Spenser. Old Tightfist will make a grand speculation 
out of that youngster to-day, that is one thing certain. Fred- 
is making a high bill of it, if he did but know it. Old wines r 
canvas-backs, wild fowl, venison, salmon-trout — there is no 
end to all the fine dishes. What is old Martin? 

Phine as. Ould Martin! Indade and ye've left yer man- 
ners hung up wid yer night cap, I'm afther thinkin',, 
speakin' of yer betthers after that sthyle. What's the fellow 
ye mane by ould Martin? 

Spenser. Why, the father of this Fred Martin, the Law 
Student. He cuts a great figure in the world. His pedigree 
must be something great, I fancy. 

Bob (laughing). Now, just hear him once! How long 
since you came out of the back- woods, Master Spenser? 
Who ever thinks of pedigree nowadays ? That's old f ogy- 
ish! Why, man alive, I expect, some day, to be the greatest 



lO THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 



man on Fifth Avenue, and everybody knows my dad. 
Ahem! my forefather — my immediate progenitor — hem! — 
was a street scavenger. Well, no matter for that! 

Phineas. Faix! and if it isn't afther bein' mishtakin' en- 
tirely ye are about the paddygry of the crayther. Och ! an' 
it's jist no paddygry at all, at all, that the lads gits in this 
westhern counthry. Begorra, ye'll have 'em talkin' about 
" Misther this " and " Misther that," but nivir the bit of a 
Lord or a Lady gits inside of the broadcloths, the silks and 
the vilvits sold west of Finnegan, O'Doherty & Go's, in ould 
Dublin, to be sure. Faix! and there's the sphot where ye can 
faist yer eyes, to yer hearts' contint, on the dukes and the 
earls, and the rale gintlemin! But sorra the one gits this 
side o'the wather. [Bows himself backwards against Sam- 
uel, r.] 

Samuel. Get about your business, Phineas! Keep your 
heels out of the soup, or I'll flail you soundly, you rascal! 
Behave, or I'll give you fits! 

Phineas. Moi! Moi! And ye'r gettin' yer back up 
for a bit of a fight, are ye? {Prepares for a fight.} Well, 
here is the lad that'll jest do the thing up jest to yer likin.' 

Samuel. It's a great pity you two fellows don't get the 
lockjaw, though I don't believe even that would keep your 
tongues still. There is gas enough in your pates to run the 
entire gas company out of business in a week. 

Phineas. Begorra! An' it's blarneyin' ye are. Sure an' 
it was niver the likes of Phineas ever wronged a human 
crayther, and he'll niver be cheatin' a reshpectable company 
out of the manes of earnin' an honest pinney now and thin. 

Samuel. Well, you better go to work and gather up the 
pieces, for the gentlemen will be here in two minutes, and 
you will get a small fee if they notice the blunder you have 
made. 

Phineas. Bedad! And who made the blunder if it isn't 
yerself, to be sure? And as to the fays of the young gin- 
tlemin, it's not the likes of Phineas to be cravin' after filthy 
lucre, at all, at all! 

Samuel. Well, you clear out with yourself! Come on, 
Jake! Come on, Bob! All hands! Let us hurry along in 
the kitchen. Those youngsters will come home from their 
hunting spree hungry as a pack of wolves. We will catch 
it if we are late! {Exeunt omnes r. u. e.) 



THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. I I 

{Enter Frederick, Harry, Alfred, Eugene, John, 
Foster, and others, l. u. e.) 

Alfred {tossing his hat). Three cheers for Fred Mar- 
tin, the jolliest fellow in the whole university! 

Foster {at the top of his voice). In the whole United 
States, you'd better say! 

Alfred. Three cheers for Fred Martin! Three cheers, 
boys! 

All. Hurrah! {All toss their hats, and shake hands 
with Frederick.) 

{Enter, l. 2 e., John, Bob, and Spenser.) 

John. Where is your game, Harry? It has gone down 
stream, I suppose! {All laugh.) 

Harry. ( jocosely.) It has gone along with the ammu- 
nition. That is all I know, for I have neither. 

John. Had plenty of ammunition when we started! Ha, 
ha, poor fellow! you are not much of a shot, anyhow, are 
you ! See him ! Hal, when you and 1 fight a duel you be 
sure and take your best aim, for then there will be no danger 
of your hitting me; ,_ >ut if not, you might hit me by accident. 

Alfred. Duel ! Hush with your noise ! What are you 
talking about? That is an obsolete word. It's lucky, Hal, 
that our dinner does not depend on your rifle. 

Frederick. Come, boys, don't be too hard. This is not 
fair play. It is bad enough to make a bad shot, without be- 
ing bantered to death on your poor marksmanship. But 
dinner is ready, boys. Let us sit up and enjoy our feast. 

Jake. Beg your pardon, sir. The viands are not quite 
ready. Will the young gentlemen have the goodness to 
amuse themselves while Samuel is on his way from the con- 
fectioner's ? 

Frederick. Yes ; we will do that. Hold a moment, 
Bob. Send in the musicians, and we will dance a little be- 
fore dinner. 

Bob {bowing profoundly). At your service! They will 
ask no greater pleasure. {Exeunt Bob and Spenser, r.u. e.) 

John. {Pompously.) Harry, you must give us a song: 
a real bona-fde, original song ; made out of your own head, 
without plagiarism, without theft, without a suggestion from 



12 THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 

anybody, — and the whole party will forgive the unfortunate 
slips of the trigger which left you without any game. 

Harry. Excuse me, young gentlemen; but I see you are 
disposed to make game of me, because I was so unfortunate 
as to shoot none for myself. Spare me the broiling, if you 
please. {Enter Musicians, r. u. e.) 

John. Never mind that now. The song, the song! 

Frederick. After dinner, boys! Here comes the Or- 
chestra. Now for a Mazurka. {The young gentlemen take 
their places for the dance. The Orchestra plays one strain.') 
Oh, that is too slow! A jig! A jig! Let us have a jig! 
That is in better time to my pulses' dance ! ( They dance 
till Jake returns, and dinner is ready. Seat themselves at 
the table. Orchestra plays. Servants run hither and 
thither. Wine is brought in. Music ceases.) 

Foster. {Rising.) " Our munificent entertainer! May 
his health never fail him. May he never have one friend 
less than he has now; and may he live to see the Atlantic 
cable under full operation, with a railway track running 
along the entire line ! " 

Frederick. Gentlemen, you overwhelm me with kind- 
ness, and in return for the compliment you pay in the long 
life you wish me, I will say I trust you all may live to real- 
ize the accomplishment of your generous wishes, and upon 
that occasion I engage myself to give a feast. All shall be 
served to a portion of green cheese, sliced from the full moon, 
which, from very recent astronomical observations, it has been 
ascertained, is unquestionably composed of this delicious escu- 
lent substance. {Boisterous cheering and laughter.) 

Alfred. But the song! The song! Come, Harry, give 
us the song! 

Harry {sings): 

A merry song for a merry band, 
And a merry heart to make it ; 
For the bliss of the world, 
You must understand, 
Depends on how we take it. 



Chorus : 



Oh, ha, ha, ha! 'Tis a merry band, 

And merry hearts do make it ; 
For the bliss of the world, we must understand, 

Depends on how we take it. 



THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 13 

Then laugh and quaff with a right good cheer, 

In spite of stormy weather ; 
Oh, laugh and quaff, for the sun shines here 

On hearts as light as a feather. 

Chorus : 

A toast for our host, 

A toast, "His Health! 

A prince in heart we find him ; 

May he ever be blest 

With joy and wealth, 

And no sorrow be ever assigned him ! " 

Alfred. Three cheers for Harry and his song! Hold 
on! A toast for Harry ! — " May the Muse always be as 
friendly to him as she is to-night. If his rifle fails to hit the 
mark, his song does not." (Bitter, l. u. e., Gen. Watson, 
Zouaves, etc.) 

Harry. Thank you, gentlemen. But, look! here come 
the Zouaves. Halloo! Halloo, boys! How are you, Gen. 
Watson? 

Gen. Watson. Well, sir! Very well, sir! Hope I see 
you all in good health. 

Frederick. Never better, General; never better! Whence 
do you hail ? ( Salutations exchanged.) 

Gen. Watson. Direct from the seat of war. Started on 
the 1 6th by order of the Commander-in-chief, who sends us 
to the Pacific coast with the Japanese expedition. 

Frederick. Ah! Oh, quite a voyage up to the yellow 
skins. Look out for pirates ! 

Gen. Watson (grasping his sword). A strong arm, a 
clear conscience, and God above! Are we not safe enough, 
gentlemen? Farewell, boys; farewell! 

Frederick. Farewell, and God bless you! Three cheers 
for the Zouaves, boys ! Hurrah ! ( Cheers. Exit, r. u. e., 
Regiment. Rnter Bob, l. 2 e.) 

Bob. Mr. Frederick, an old man is waiting outside to see 
you. He sends his name. Shall he be admitted? 

Frederick {looking at the card). Good heavens! It is 
my father! What will he say? 

Alfred. By your face, I judge, we have reason to fear. 

Eugene. The old gentleman does not favor jolly expen- 
ditures. Ah, I see! A bad state of affairs! What is to be 
done? 



14 THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 

Frederick (covers his face with his hands a moment}. 
What is to be done? Why, my father must be presented to 
you all, of course. ( Voice trembles.} He is a kind, good 
old father, and deserving of a better son. 

Alfred. No such thing! No such thing! There never 
was a better! 

All. That's so! That's so! 

Frederick. Boys, you must not blame me. My father 
is a good old man, God knows; but he is very frugal. It 
was his care and economy, in truth, that has enabled me to 
receive the advantages I now enjoy. How it will pain him 
when he learns of my extravagance. But, no! He mUst not 
find it out. Yet, what am I to do? 

John. Send him word that you are out of town. 

Frederick. And not see my dear old father? No, sir! 
Bad as I am, I never lied to him yet, nor will I now. 

Eugene. Why, Fred, some one of us can act the host. 
You may act as one of the guests. You can make it appear 
so, without any lying. 

Frederick. But that would be deceiving him. 

Alfred. Yet it is better to hide matters a little now, till 
you have time to see how to make all right. Come, I will 
be Lieut. Harcourt, and you be one of my friends. 

Frederick. Indeed, I am ashamed to be driven to this 
{thoughtfully'). But, very well. We cannot help it now. 
My poor father! How can I meet him! 

Alfred. Cheer up, man! Don't be a coward. You are 
doing the best you can. 

Frederick {with agitation). As you will. I will play 

my part, but I beg of you, gentlemen, to conduct yourselves 
in such a manner that my father will suspect nothing. That 
"wretched broker! Why did I permit him to inveigle me into 
this shameful position! 

{Enter Mr. Martin with Bob, l. 2 e. Frederick em- 
braces his father.) 

Frederick. Welcome! welcome, father! I hope you 
are well, and mother, and all at home! 

Mr. Martin. Yes, well! All well! And you, my son? 

Frederick [drops his head). Very well, father. 



THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 1 5 

Mr. Martin. Your cheek is flushed, my son. You cer- 
tainly have fever. 

Frederick. It is from the excitement of meeting you, 
my dear father. Never mind that: but let me present to you 
my friends. Lieut. Harcourt, this is my venerable father 
Mr. Martin, of whom you have so often heard me speak. 
Father, this is Lieut. Alfred Harcourt, our noble entertainer. 

Alfred. With no common pleasure I greet you, Mr. 
Martin, as the father of my friend, and bid you a most cordial 
welcome. 

Mr. Martin. Thank you, thank you, Lieut. Harcourt! 
I am rejoiced to find that my son has rendered himself worthy 
of such honorable companions. 

Frederick. Excuse me, father; let me present to you 
also these, my other associates. Gentlemen, this is my father, 
Mr. Martin. ( All bow resfectfully.) 

Mr. Martin. You will not expect many compliments 
from an old man like me, young gentlemen; but I am sin- 
cerely glad to meet you all, and my hopes for you, my dear 
Frederick, I trust, are being realized. 

Alfred. Frederick is the pride of his teachers, and the 
favorite of his fellow-students. You have every reason, sir, 
to congratulate yourself on your son's progress in the study 
of Law, as well as in his decorum as a gentleman. 

Mr. Martin {approaching Alfred with emotion}. My 
young friend, you console me beyond measure, and I most 
heartily thank you. Angelo and Frederick are our treasures, 
you know. If any misfortune should happen to them, our 
old hearts would break. {Enter Tightfist, l. u. e.) 

Frederick. My mother ! Father, tell me of my 
mother! 

Mr. Martin. Oh, my son, she is almost childish in her 
love for you. "Frederick! Frederick! Frederick!" from 
morning till night. Has she any nice little titbits, it is — " O 
I wish poor Frederick had this! He is so fond of such things"; 
and the good old lady will refuse herself the pleasure of eat- 
ing them, as if by so doing she would rob you, though she 
knows very well that you will never get them. Ah, what a 
happiness it will be to her when she learns how much you are 
thought of. 

Frederick {brushing away a tear). Thank you, father. 
I hope she may always find me worthy of her great affection. 



l6 THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 

Alfred. We regret, Mr. Martin, that you were not here 
on Thursday last to witness the triumph of your son. He 
then entitled himself to the first prize, offered for the best 
thesis on Statute Law. 

Mr. Martin {rubbing his hands in delight}. Is that 
true? Is that true? I am pleased to hear it. (Exit Tight- 
fist, l. u. e.) 

Frederick {aside, excitedly). Indeed, my young 

friends are carrying matters too far. To deceive my aged 
father unnecessarily is an insult to myself. (Aloud.) Father, 
my young associates flatter me. They speak too highly 
of my attainments. 

Mr. Martin. And this is better than all, my son. I am 
glad to see you modest when praised. Were you to boast, 
I should doubt your sound progress. Your mother will be 
glad to learn of your unpretending merit. (Tightfist re- 
enters, L.) 

Alfred (offering wine to Mr. Martin). Mr. Martin, 
allow us the pleasure of taking a social glass with you. 

Mr. Martin (motioning the glass away). No, no, thank 
you, sir! I never drink wine, sir. A man is safe only when 
his head is clear. 

Alfred. But, sir, you will find this very pure. I pray 
you do us the honor. It will do you good after the long 
journey. 

Mr. Martin. No, no, boy! I know your good heart, 
but I cannot take it. 

Frederick. Father, I wish to hear more about home. 
Will the young gentlemen have the goodness to excuse us? 

Alfred. We do so with reluctance, I assure you; but, 
Mr. Martin, if on your visit I can be of service to you, I beg 
you to command me; and, before we part, let me again as- 
sure you of the regular and excellent life your son has led 
with us, and our great pleasure in classing him with our dear- 
est friends. 

Tightfist (aside). The rascals! What fine faces they 
can put on a lie! Grand dinners every fortnight : that is 
the regular and excellent life he leads. 

Mr. Martin. Thank you, Lieutenant! Thank you, sir. 
Good-bye! We shall meet again. (Exit with Frederick, 
r. 2 E.) 

(Exeunt Alfred et al., r. u. e. Tightfist comes down, c.) 



THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 1 7 



Tightfist. And shall I, an old fox, be caught at last? 
This young Martin is a rogue. He has passed himself off as 
richer than he is. Ah! He thinks to escape the debt! Hah! 
Escape John Ainsworth Tightfist? No, indeed! The man 
who owes me, pays his debts. So long as there is a detective, 
I will have my pay. The old Martin may have to suffer, but 
the young scapegrace may learn a lesson in the meantime. 
His bills have mounted up to quite a fortune. I will let him 
see them, and if he is not able to foot them, I will make the 
old man wince. {Exit Tightfist, l. u. e.) 

SCENE II. 

Another part of the Grove. 

{Enter, r. 2 e., Mr. Martin and Frederick.) 

Mr. Martin. With good manners and a good heart, my 
son, you will be able to win your way anywhere in the 
world. But there are dangers always, Frederick. Good 
principles are like good apples, my son. You must keep the 
one in an even temperature, and apart from the apples that 
are unsound, or they will rot. You must keep the other 
away from bad company, or they are ruined. Your young 
associates are all well instructed in their religion, no doubt? 

Frederick. Most of them, perhaps, make a better use 
of their instructions than I have done, father. 

Mr. Martin. Frederick, you pain me by always speak- 
ing so disparagingly of yourself. One would think you had 
done something wrong, but I trust not; and the bright smile, 
that used to be so much like sunshine, is often clouded, I 
observe; but I suppose you are homesick, poor boy! 

Frederick. Yes, father; I wish to talk about home. Is 
Angelo still pursuing his studies? 

Mr. Martin. Yes, and is doing well. Angelo has a 
very quick mind. He is a noble boy. I think we will have 
to let him be a priest, for that is what his mother wants. He 
loves his books. Study is like play to him, and he makes 
our fireside a little lecture-room every evening. How happy 
my children make me! 

Frederick. Is my mother troubled with the cough she 
used to have? 

Mr. Martin. Not so much as formerly. It depends a 



l8 THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 

great deal upon her spirits, and when she has nothing to 
trouble her mind the cough goes altogether; but if any- 
thing depresses her, she gets sleepless nights, and all the old 
symptoms come back again. 

Frederick. She was pleased with the shawl and the 
overshoes I sent her, I believe? 

Mr. Martin {laughing). Pleased is no name for it. 
She rides out every day just for the pleasure of wearing 
them, and each day they are the text for your eulogium. 

Frederick. Do our young fruit trees flourish well, 
father? 

Mr. Martin. Yes. They will bear next year. The 
plum-tree by the grape arbor bears blossoms, your mother 
says, that look as your face did when you were a babe, so full 
of glee and innocence that they make one smile in spite of him- 
self. We call that Frederick's tree. But, my son, what do | 
you find most difficult in your student life? 

Frederick. Indeed, father, I find few difficulties. My 
teachers express themselves as well satisfied. I have read 
Story, Chitty, Blackstone, Coke, and all the most distin- 
guished authors, and I think I have a good understanding of 
Law as far as I have gone. We students often argue supposed 
intricate cases, and our critics generally award the palm for ' 
the best plea to myself. But these are only imaginary. It 
might be very different in a real court of justice. 

Mr. Martin. That we can tell better when you are 
admitted to the bar, my son ; but I trust the subtleties of 
law will never lead you to swerve from the integrity and 
uprightness of purpose which are the main-spring of all hon- 
orable success. ( Dttring the dialogue they walk arm in 
arm, and thus pass off the stage, l. u. e.) 

{Re-enter Frederick, l. u. e., rushing in with face flushed, 
hair disordered, and in great exciteme?it.) 

Frederick. Oh! How can I look into my own heart! 
I have deceived my father: my dear old father! I have ruined 
myself! I have ruined my parents! Twenty-five thousand dol- 
lars borrowed and expended, and not one cent to pay! Why 
did I ever meet him? The deceitful scoundrel has written for 
reimbursements. O if T could but hide this from my father! 
[Enter Th;htfist, l.) Wretch, why are you here? 



THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 



Tightfist. I come on business. 

Frederick. Were you an embodied fiend you could not 
come on worse business. 

Tightfist. Keep your temper, young fellow; I come orm 
honest business. 

Frederick {furiously}. You do not! Honest business?' 
No, you wheedling old miser: you do not come on honest bus- 
iness. Is it honest business to impose on the ignorance of at 
thoughtless, inexperienced boy? Honest business to lend 
money, without stint, and never to warn him, old as you are, 
of his imprudence, of his excess? Is it honest to take advan- 
tage of my youth and folly ? Honest business ! ( Walks the 
stage passionately.) Oh, but your withered, pueseless 
MISER-HEART was too cold, when you were a boy, ever 
to conjide in anybody — in anyone f s HONESTY 1 so you 
were never deceived as you have deceived ME! 

Tightfist {scratching his head). You wanted the 
money, boy ! 

Frederick. But I had no idea how I was running in 
debt. Had you been an honest man, were you in honest 
business, you would have prevented, instead of driving me 
on to ruin. 

Tightfist. Well, pay up the bills, and all will be right. 
By a shrewd game {winks waggishly) or two, you can 
secure enough to start you on well. Do not be discouraged. 

Frederick {angrily). Wretch! Have you a heart? 
Would you drive me to the gaming-table, that you may 
count a little more gold? No! From you I have learned a 
lesson; I shall not forget it soon: it is to let all rascals 
alone! You would ruin me! You would ruin my father! 
Be off with you! 

Tightfist {coldly). When I show you your bills, young 
man, I will go. Here is only a little matter of twenty-five 
thousand dollars. I only ask you to pay it. 

Frederick {stamping, menacing the broker ;>. Begone, I 
tell you! You know — yes, very well you know — I am not 
prepared to pay. When you offered to wait on me for " any 
length of time" I expected to return all when once admitted 
to practice. I will not look at the bills! Begone with you, 
brutal man. [Drives the broker away. Exit Tightfist, r.) 
Twenty-five Thousand Dollaks! More than my poor 



20 THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 



father's entire property is worth! I have ruined my father! 
I shall go wild with anguish! Fool that I was, to be cajoled 
by that miser's promises! {Exit Frederick, l. 2 e.) 

(Tightfist re-enters, R. Phineas enters, l. u. e.) 

Tightfist {feeling his head). The young scamp is 
quite eloquent. He will make a good lawyer, without ques- 
tion. Let me see! His father lives in Boston. I will take 
the morning train for Boston. The young fury came near 
giving me a broken nose. {Feels his nose.) 

Phineas [shaking his fist in the face of the broker). Faix! 
an'* if he had 'a smashed yer face fer ye he would have done 
a good turn fer the unfortunate craythers that must look at 
the likes of yees; and if he had cracked yer ould head fer 
yees, there'd be the one villain the less in the world. Och ! 
and indade, if a body can rade by yer faytures, little is the 
hope fer the lad that gets into yer clutches. See here, you 
spalpeen ! don't yer old phiz ache with ugliness ? {Business.) 

(curtain.) 



ACT SECOND. 

SCENE I. 

House in Boston. 

(Mr. Martin discovered, r. Enter Mr. Richards, l. 2 e.) 

Mr. Martin {shaking hands with Mr. Richards). 
Good morning, Mr. Richards. You have called, no doubt, 
to hear the good news of our Frederick. 

Mr. Richards. Yes, sir; and to welcome you back. We 
are all interested in Fred. A fine boy! A fine boy! He is 
doing well then, and everything is right about him? 

Mr. Martin {rubbing his hands with delight). I could 
not bring a better report of my son, Mr. Richards. He has 
made wonderful progress in every department of his profes- 
sion. He is the favorite of everyone. His manners are those 
of a prince. Really, Mr. Richards, though / am his father, 
I must say, I have seldom seen a finer looking young man. 
He associates too, sir, with the best society in the city. When 



THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 21 



I arrived, my son was over in Hoboken, enjoying a grand 
feast with young men of his own age, who, to all appearance, 
were the flower of the city. 

Mr. Richards {shaking his head incredulously}. I am 
glad, Mr. Martin, to hear your good report of Frederick, but 
I tell you, sir, that feast does not sound well in my ears. Stu- 
dents are very wild sometimes, Mr. Martin, and I would 
rather a thousand times have heard you say that you found 
Frederick shut up in his room poring over his law-books. 

Mr. Martin. But, Mr. Richards, you would not have a 
youth make an old man of himself. The close confinement 
to his books would kill the boy, without some amusements. 

Mr. Richards. He should have his recreations, very 
true, Mr. Martin. But there is great latitude — yes, believe 
me when I say there are great temptations laid in the path of 
a young man when left free to follow his own inclinations,, 
especially, sir, when those inclinations turn towards feasting.. 
Mr. Martin, I do not wish to throw cold water on your hopes,, 
but I fear poor Frederick has been caught in a trap. 

Mr. Martin. No, sir! Do not be suspicious, Mr. Rich- 
ards. This was a holiday, and how could the poor boy refuse- 
the invitation? 

. Mr. Richards. It is far from me to willingly pain the 
heart of an affectionate father, but I have heard stories of" 
college youngsters all my life. They never know the cost of 
anything, the worth of money, the value of time. Give them 
full play and they are like puppies in a lady's dressing-room;: 
the best use they can make of the choicest treasures is to tear 
them to pieces, and toss them to the winds, — that's your 
college student. Yet, indeed, sir, I hope Frederick will turn 
out to be all you could wish, and that I am deceived. 

Mr. Martin. Do not doubt it, Mr. Richards; do not 
doubt it. The bov would never deceive me, sir. He has a 
heart too noble. Do not question his most profound reverence 
for his father. I have full confidence in the youth. 

Mr. Richards. Yes : perhaps with good reason; but I 
have known many a young man ruined by the confidence re- 
posed in him by his parents. Let me tell you, Mr. Martin : 
young men left without strict supervision — a little wholesome 
restraint— are like grain harvested too soon. The grain is 
mildewed: it i§ blasted j the boy is ruined: as a man, his best 



22 THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 

prospects are blighted. Look at Gen. Holbrook's son; look 
at Charles Morton. 

Mr. Martin. But remember, sir, remember, Frederick 
is a very different young man: very different, sir. 

Mr. Richards. That may be very true, Mr. Martin; yet, 
staunch as his morals may be, I must insist that it takes far 
more than ordinary strength, more than common force of 
character, to enable a young man to succeed in life after he 
has wasted his best days in sporting; though I do not take 
upon me to say that Frederick is doing this, by any means. 
However, he may be greatly exposed. 

(Mr. Martin and Mr. Richards stand thoughtfully for a 

moment.") 

Mr. Martin {musingly}. I can but cherish great hopes 
for Frederick, Mr. Richards! great hopes for Frederick! [Ex- 
eunt, R. 2 E.) 

SCENE II. 

Apartment for study in the House of Mr. Martin. 

(Prof. Allgood seated at a table, l. Angelo seated at a 

desk near by, r.) 

Prof. Allgood. Hand me your book, my lad. 

Angelo. My lesson is not very well committed to mem- 
ory, Prof. Allgood. 

Professor. Recite to the best of your ability. What is 
a verb? 

Angelo. A verb is a part of speech which expresses be- 
ing, action, or passion. 

Prof. Allgood. Give the distinction between a noun and 
jsl verb? 

Angelo. While a noun is simply the name of something 
which exists, — a verb — (hesitates) a verb — implies something 
which is performed, or the state of existence. 

Professor Allgood. Let your replies be more prompt, 
>my child. What is the use of language? 

Angelo. Language is employed for the purpose of cora- 
•municating ideas. 

Professor. How many parts of speech are there? 

Angelo. Why — why — Professor, — there are — there are 
:a great many. 



THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 23 

Professor Allgood. Ah, my child, your mind is any- 
where but on your lesson, this morning. You can gain 
nothing, Angelo, without application. 

Angelo. The lesson is very hard to-day, Professor All- 
good. It is dry. 

Professor Allgood (rising, removing his glasses, wip- 
ing them with his handkerchief}. Angelo, suppose I were 
to permit you to neglect your Grammar — because you think 
it dry, what would I have reason to hope from you ? Reilect 
upon the importance of this sublime study. It is the founda- 
tion, the science, of correct expression ; and expression, re- 
member, is the soul of the universe. Are you willing to 
pass through life with no rule to guide you in the proper use 
of words? Are you satisfied to say "I seen" for "I saw," 
or for " I have seen ? " Are you willing to let it be quite as 
agreeable to your ears to hear the expression, " I have not 
been no "where," as to hear that which is proper, " I have 
been no where?" O Angelo, the very thought is shocking. 
{Shakes his head.) Tut! tut! You must be more attentive 
my boy! 

Angelo. Excuse me, Professor Allgood, but I am con- 
stantly thinking of Frederick to-day. I cannot keep my 
mind on my lesson. 

Professor Allgood. Does that help Frederick? Does 
it help you? Will it hasten your meeting? Concentrate 
your mind on your work. Think of the science of Grammar 
as the basis of all rational communication of ideas: of conver- 
sation, of Rhetoric, of Elocution — in fact, of all the sciences, 
even of Theology; also of Law, Physics, Mathematics — for 
what would they all be were there no systematic medium of 
communication, such as is afforded by Grammar? 

Angelo. Yes, my dear teacher, I know that Grammar is 
very useful, but it is very dry to me, to-day. 

Professor Allgood {laying his hand on the head of 
Angelo). And you want recreation, I suppose. Ah, that 
is the way with these boys! Angelo, Angelo, I am sorry to 
see you so easily diverted from your task: but, my good 
child, as you are generally very diligent you may have the 
rest of the day to yourself. But you must learn self-control, 
Angelo. Self-control is among the greatest of all the virtues. 
It is the soul of all the rest. 



24 THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 



Angelo [embracing Professor Allgood). Thank you 
many times, my dear teacher! Indeed I have heard so much 
good news, that I cannot study. 

Professor Allgood. Well, well! Stay here and enjoy 
your recreation, and may God bless you, my child, (exit, l. 2 E.) 

Angelo. The truth is, I do so long to see my brother 
Frederick, my glorious, dear brother, that I can scarcely wait 
for his return. What a happiness it is to have such a brother 
as Frederick! I cannot see how boys can get along without 
having older brothers, I must say, though, there are very 
few boys who can boast of having brothers like Frederick. 
I think it is the happiest thing in the world to have somebody 
like him to love — a noble, handsome, learned fellow like him. 
He is the boy! Just think of it once! He is to come 
home in vacation, too! Hurrah! Where is my hat? Fred 
will be home next vacation! Who can stay indoors with 
such a thought as that in his head? Hurrah! Fred, brother 
Fred, will be home in six months, and I have not seen him in 
three years! Six months! six months! Only six months! 
{Exit, r. 2 E.) 

SCENE III. 

(Enter Tightfist, and Jesse the servant, l. 2 e.) 

Tightfist. This is Mr. Martin's house, is it? 
Jesse. Yes, sir, I will call him. You wish to see him, I 
suppose. 

Tightfist (indifferently). No great hurry. You may 
call him after a while. (He examines the walls, windows 
and furniture. Exit Jesse, looking suspiciously at Tight- 
fist.) Let us see this house. Well built! High between 
joists! Walls firm, lumber well seasoned befoi'e used. Ha! 
The old fellow should have been as sharp in building up 
his son's education. Splendid window glass, good furniture, 
premises well kept, good location, clean street! Let's seel 
(Counts on hisfngers.) Yes, yes; a sharp auctioneer would 
readily run the whole affair up to $25,000 — may be more: 
enough to cover the youngster's bills, and the extra expenses,, 
journey, etc. {Rubbing his hands, expressive of pleasure. \ 
Yes, a handsome little spec, I declare. What's here?' 
(Approaches a picture of the Blessed Virgin.) Ah! sure 
as my eyes, a painting by- one of the old "masters. Hope 
the old fellow does not know the real worth. If he does 



THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 2$ 



not, we will take good care that he shall not learn it. It 
can slide in with the other ornamental rubbish. It may hurt 
the old woman's piety {chuckling). He, he, he! She will 
have to thank me for this chance of practising the Christian 
graces. He, he, he! {Enter Mr. Martin, Mr. Richards, 
and Jesse, r. 2 e.) This is Mr. Martin, I presume. 

Mr. Martin. That is my name. And yours? Your 
face is strange to me. If I have ever met you. sir, I do not 
remember the time. 

Tightfist. Perhaps not. John James Ainsworth Tight- 
fist, Money Broker, 39^ Wall-street, New York City. That 
is my name and address. 

Mr. Martin. Tightfist! Wall-street! Money Broker!: 
You surprise me! I do not understand by what right you 
come into my parlor, sir. 

Tightfist. You may be still more surprised later on, Mr- 
Martin. 

Mr. Martin. You have made a grand mistake, I assure 
you ! You are in the wrong house. Let me show you to 
the door, and direct you to the right place. 

Tightfist. Not at all, sir! I have made no mistake. I 
came to Boston on business. Do not be disturbed. Every- 
thing is right. This is your house, I believe, Mr. Martin. 
Fine location. 

Mr. Martin. That is none of your concern, and I have 
nothing to say in the matter. Indeed I will have nothing to 
do with you ! Jesse, here, take this man to the gate, and 
direct him to the place he is searching after. 

Tightfist. There is no mistake, sir. However, I have 
a little important business to transact with you, Mr. Martin; 
and if we can have a private interview I can explain myself 
more fully. {Exeunt Mr; R. and Jesse, r. 2 e.) 

Mr. Martin. To me this is a mystery. I am sure that 
I never met you before. I have never even heard your name 
before. There is something wrong about these proceedings. 
Tightfist. Not at all. But we may as weHcome to the- 
business at once. You have a son, named Frederick Martin,, 
at the Aspenwald Law University, New York City. He is 
not so much of a stranger. He has often seen me. He know* 
my name well, but has never mentioned it to you. Probably 
not. 



26 THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 

Mr. Martin. My son! Ob, good God! What can this 
mean? (A slight pause. Mr. Martin ^«c^ the floor a few 
steps.) Well, well, go on, sir. What is the matter? 

Tightfist (coldly). The affair stands in this way, Mr. 
Martin. Young Mr. Martin, your son, is my debtor, for 
money loaned him by me, in the sum of twenty-five thousand 
dollars. It takes no small amount of money to enable a boy 
to live on the best in New York City. 

Mr. Martin (in an excited manner). You talk like, a 
maniac, man. What you say of my son is not true. I will 
not listen to a word (walks the room). 

Tightfist (measuring his words — rubbing his chin care- 
lessly). It is just as well to be cool about it, Mr. Martin. 
Your son is a youth who has found great demands upon his 
purse. He likes a gay horse, a good dinner, and to entertain 
his friends just about as well as any other young gentleman I 
know of. At all events, he has been flush with money, sir, 
and I have favored him with the use of what he wanted; but 
if you have any other way of paying me, I will not take the 
trouble of selling your little property here, sir. 

Mr. Martin (with a groan, staring wildly). Man! man! 
do you say this to me? — me! the boy's father? Do you want 
to drive me mad? (Pauses a moment. Looks up to Heaven, 
after which he goes to Tightfist, and says, in a tremu- 
lous voice:) And this comes on me in my old age! Sixty- 
five years, and never such a blow as this before! Indeed, 
sir, if I honestly owe you, Heaven knows I would not wrong 
you of a single farthing. But this is very hard to bear — for 
an old man like me, very hard to bear, sir! I think there 
must be some mistake about it, after all. There are other 
Martins in the city beside myself, Mr. Tightfist. 

Tightfist. As to your identity, sir, I am perfectly satis- 
fied. Here are the notes your son has given me. Collectible, 
you see, sir. You know his signature. Here, also, are his 
bills, Mr. Martin. {Enter Mr. Richards, r.) 

Mr. Martin (glancing over the papers). You are a base 
scoundrel! You do not deserve the name of man! You ought 
to be gibbeted! (Shakes his clenched hand in the face of 
Tightfist.) You are culpable before God for the ruin of 
my son, and His vengeance will come upon you, depend upon 
it — depend upon it ! Such wrongs do not go unpunished, sir. 
God is a just God! Your crime is worse than if you had 



THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 2*] 

stolen the money out of my pocket! You have done worse 
than take my money : you have ruined my son ! 

Tightfist [coolly, scratching his head). I have not long 
to remain in Boston. Let us to business. At what figure is 
your property assessed? You may as well talk coolly as to be 
excited, Mr. Martin. 

Mr. Martin. Ah! This is what I have heard of, but 
never seen before. This is adding insult to injury. What 
good will your money do you when it is the price of a human 
soul? {Shakes his Ji si at the broker.) Beware how you 
push this matter, Mr. Tightfist! 

Tightfist. I am armed, sir; I do not fear you! 

Mr. Martin {recoiling). And do you think that I would 
stain my soul with your vile blood? Do you think that I de- 
sire to take your life? That / would throw away my soul 
because you have ruined my fortune ? No, no, miserable 
wretch! Much as you have wronged me, Heaven knows I 
would a thousand times rather see you repent than to have 
you suffer the just penalty of your cupidity. But I cannot 
talk with you now! I cannot talk with you! ( Going towards 
Mr. Richards, r., who grasps his hand in condolence.) O 
Mr. Richards, your fears were too well grounded! This 
hard-hearted Wall-street broker has ruined my Frederick. 
My hopes are crushed. Poor boy! Poor boy! Alas! for 
Frederick. [More calmly.) This Tightfist has loaned him 
the sum of twenty-five thousand dollars, which the unhappy- 
child has squandered. But the most bitter part of the whole 
affair is, the boy has deceived me — the boy has deceived 
me! Undoubtedly, the feast he was enjoying, when I saw 
him in the city, was at his own expense. 

Tightfist. Just so. 

Mr. Martin [angrily). How do you dare speak, wretch? 
How do you dare raise your voice to condemn my son, when 
you have yourself fastened him down, chained him with your 
own filthy, miserly, grasping claws? 

Mr. Richards. My dear friend, I stand ready to assist 
you to the best of my ability. It is a doleful state of things, 
to be sure, but trust in God. Good will come out of it, be- 
lieve me, if you only have confidence in Him. 

Mr. Martin. Yes, yes; that is what I am trying to do, 
sir. Oh! but why do you not take that villain out of my 
sight? I fear I shall curse him, if he stays. Take him away! 
Take him away, I tell you! 



28 THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 

Mr. Richards. I beg you will leave the premises, Mr, 
Tightfist. These matters can be settled much better without 
irritating the painful wound you have already inflicted. Sus- 
pend action for a while, until we see what can be done. [Exit 

TlGHTFIST, R.) 

SCENE IV. 

Streets of New York. Two o clock in the morning. Sott Music from 
the Orchestra during the entire Scene. 

{Enter Gen. Watson, r., and Harry, l.) 

Harry. Good morning, General. Do you leave the city 
to-night? 

Gen. Watson. Yes, take the train in half an hour. 

Harry. But you have heard the trouble about Frederick, 
I suppose? 

Gen. Watson. Yes, and never had anything take the 
heart out of me so in my life before. If Fred had been a 
selfish, close-fisted, hard-hearted fellow he would never have 
got into this scrape. Zounds! It's always so! If a body has. 
a soul larger than a five- cent piece there is always some vil- 
lain ready to make some capital out of him, and grind him 
into the dust. {Enter Alfred, l.) The truth is, Hal, I have 
a good mind to take my hat and leave this world. It's just so 
in the army. Show a particle of merit, and you set your 
foot in a den of snakes. It's as much as your life is worth to 
earn an honest reputation. If you're mean, and care for noth- 
ing but your own comfort, you are a " respectable gentle- 
man;" but if you have any regard for other people as well as 
yourself, there is always some wretch of a Tightfist to sting 
you. 

Harry. That Tightfist ought to be shot. Fred isn't the 
first boy he has ruined. 

Alfred {coming forward, c). But he'll be the last : I'll 
see to that! 

Gen. Watson. Good! good! That's right, Alfred! Go 
ahead ! You have my hand for it [they shake hands). 

Alfred. Come on! Let's see if we can find him. (Ex* 
eunt Gen. Watson, Harry and Alfred, r. Enter 
Frederick, l,, muffled in his cloak. The clock strikes two.) 



THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 20, 

Frederick [looking up to the church*). Two o'clock! 
"The train leaves in fifteen minutes. Would to God I knew 
Tightfist had not gone on the morning train ! If I could only 
~be there five minutes before him, just to tell everything with 
my own lips! Then my father might tread upon me; he 
might kick me out of doors — I would not care. I would die 
at his feet, and be happy. But that the scoundrel himself 
should tell it first! Indeed, I can never bear it. O stars, why 
-will you not take me on your beams that I may reach my 
home before the villain gets there! But no, no! I must wait! 
Oh, how different this is from the time of my leaving home! 
All was bright and cheerful then ; but one thought was be- 
fore me: to be an honorable, learned, and whole-souled man; 
to live and be the pride of my parents, that was my ambi- 
tion. Now, what a change! All is dark and desolate. There 
stands the old church, just as it was! It was dear to me then. 
Ah, and then I was happy. But what were my promises? 
Alas, perfidious soul! Tightfist has done his cruel work too 
perfectly. [Shakes his head.) The church! I cannot go 
'there now. My heart is broken! There is no rest for me 
but at my father's feet. [Exit, r.) 

SCENE V. 

Room in Mr Martin's House. 

[Enter Mr. Martin and Mr. Richards.) 

Mr. Martin, So, then, it is no dream. It is the truth, 
the naked truth. Here I am, an old man, without one cent to 
help myself with. What I possess is worse than nothing: all 
involved. Then, to think of the boy's poor mother! How 
will she bear up under this news? Ah, this is the most pain- 
ful! Angelo, too! poor Angelo! He can never be educated. 

Mr. Richards, Mr. Richards, it takes a stout heart to 
bear up under trials like these! The sale too, I suppose, must 
take place to-morrow. 

Mr. Richards. Yes; that sordid ruffian-bioker will not 
delay a moment, Mr. Martin. 

Mr. Martin [impetuously). But hard as my trouble is, 
sir, hard as my trouble is, I would not change places with 
this extortioner for the world. Poor as I am, I am richer 
than he. I have never wronged any man in my life. No ; I 
never have wronged any man. I am honest, thank God, and 

1 always mean to be. 



30 THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 

Mr. Richards. The best way, Mr. Martin, is to think as 
little about these things as you can. Take what comes pa- 
tiently, preparing for the very worst, and hoping for brighter 
days, for they often come when we least expect them. 

Mr. Martin. But my poor wife, sir! I do not expect 
her to survive this blow. She idolized Frederick. Yes, sir, 
she idolized him. 

Mr. Richards. Yet it is not well to look forward to 
trouble. It comes soon enough, you see, without going out 
to meet it. Keep up a good heart, and this crash may even 
prevent some greater trouble in future. 

Mr. Martin. Oh, sir, but how can I forgive myself for 
sending my poor boy into the city unprotected, without a 
friend to warn him ? Why did I not anticipate this danger, 
fool that I was? 

Mr. Richards. Come, come, Mr. Martin, there is no use 
in dwelling on these things. It is better to look the future 
boldly in the face, and to let the past alone. 

Mr. Martin. Very true, Mr. Richards, very true. Well, 
the only alternative for me is to return to my old trade. I 
would buy a horse and dray, but that is too expensive so long 
as I have strength to trundle a wheelbarrow. Yes, I will go 
to work down at the wharf, just as I used to do. But Fred- 
erick ! — what can make up for my crushed hopes in him ? 

Mr. Richards. Angelo may be to you all that you have 
expected of your other son. Do not despair. 

Mr. Martin. Poor iVngelo! But 1 have not the means 
to educate him ; and the thought that my son is ruined — oh, 
sir, this is what drives me beside myself. 

Mr. Richards. Take heart! There are more ways than 
one out of a dark wood. Angelo may be saved by Frederick's 
sad fate. 

Angelo. [Runs into the room e.) Father, will you give me 
some money to buy a flute? I want to learn to play before 
Frederick comes home. It will be such fun when we are to- 
gether. 

Mr. Martin (mournfully}. Not now, my son; not now. 

Angelo (coming closer). Why, father; what is the mat- 
ter? What has happened? 

Mr. Martin. Go, my child; go to your play. 

Angelo {caressing his father). But, father, I cannot go 



THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 31 



when I see you in such trouble. Father, I want to do some- 
thing to help you. Is it anything I have done? 

Mr. Martin. Angelo, go. Go, I tell you. 

Angelo {aside). I do not understand this — there is some- 
thing dreadful. Oh, I will go to the Blessed Virgin; I will 
tell her to help my poor old father, for 1 cannot bear to see 
him in such distress. She knows what is the matter. She 
will help him. (Exit, r.) 



SCENE VI. Same. 

(Enter Mr. Martin and Mr. Richards, l.) 

Mr. Martin. It is just as I told you: Ellen cannot bear 
it. It has killed her. I broke the news as gently as ever I 
could, but it was of no use. She fainted away, and she goes 
from one swoon to another. The doctors and servants are 
doing all they can, but there is no hope— her heart is broken. 
Frederick (rushing in r.u.e., and casting himself at his 
father's feet). My father! Father! you know all. Forgive 
me, and I will die for you! 

Mr. Martin. Wretch! away with you! You have 
murdered your mother! Out of the house, and never darken 
my doors again! 

Frederick. But, father, one word! I had no idea of 
what I was doing. Oh, father, hear me! 

Mr. Martin. Begone, begone, I tell you! Do not in- 
suit me with your presence. I shall go to your dying mother, 
but not to tell her that her murderer is in the house. 

Frederick (prostrating himself). Mercy, father, mercy ! 
Let me go to my mother! I kiss the dust! Forgive me! oh, 
forgive me! 

Mr. Martin. Never! Leave my house! 
Frederick (rises, struggles with his feelings, casts one 
look of affection and fear upon his father, goes to the side of 
the stage, l., and says, aside). It is just! (Clasps his hands, 
lifting them towards Heaven.^ Heaven! oh, give me the 
strength to bear this merited judgment— to live— to atone ; 
and in Thy sight, and in that of Thy angels, I vow to live 
forever upright. {Exit, l. Curtain falls.) 



32 THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 



ACT THIRD. 

SCENE I. 

New York City. A Wharf. Phineas, in Sailor's Costume, and Tight- 
fist, on the Deck of a Steamer. 

Phineas {looking about the steamer). Bedad! an' what 
is the crayther after doin', to be sure ? Faith, an' she is 
a gettin' out of port. Bad luck to yees, capt'in! What 
for do yees unhitch yees horses before the time, yer honor? 
(Staggers towards Tightfist.) Och, honey! an' is it ship- 
board we are, or is it overboard? Bedad! Whist, now! 
Either it's my head's a swimmin' — or it's the ship's a sailin', 
whichever it is. Och! yees ould rogue! What's this? Faix! 
Is it the ship's riggin' ar is it a wheelbarry! (Slaps Tjght- 
fist in the face.) Get out of the way wid ye! (Exit Tight- 
fist on the opposite side. Enter a number <?/* Sailors, with 
the Captain. Some smoking.} 

ist Sailor. Fair wind, boys! Have you heard when the 
" Mad Anthony " will sail ? 

2D Sailor (taking his pipe from his mouth). Sometime 
soon, sir. She has been overhauled, and the storage taken in. 
Think the prospect is we shall put off to-night, sir. 

3D Sailor (to the 2D S vilor). Here, Jack, let me light 
my pipe. Not at your nose, by jolly ! (laughing) red enough, 
though. 

ist Sailor. Say, Jack, have you put in a good store of 
pigtail ? Take plenty, so if you are thrown on the Island of 
Juan Fernandez there will be enough — enough for your man 
Friday, and yourself, too. Do you understand, sir? That's 
according to my creed. Nothing like foresight on ship- 
board, sir. 

3D Sailor. Do you mean to be my man Friday? Beg to 
be excused, sir. Beg to be excused. 

ist Sailor (sings): 

Oh, who is afraid of the stormy old ocean, 

And who is so gay as the warlike Jack Tar? 
He is racked to his rest by the billows' commotion, 

He learns from the tempest the tactics of war. 
Oh, strong are the storm winds, but stronger the spirit 

When valor has marked out the path for the soul, 
And death is but glory, as proudly we near it, 

If Honor and Liberty lead to the goal. 



THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 33 

2D Sailor. Captain, we are impatient to be off. We are 
tired of these land-lubbers. When shall we set sail? 

Capt. Henderson. We shove off to-night. Are you all 
in good fighting trim? 

Several Voices. First rate, sir: first rate! never better! 
ist Sailor. Hurrah! for salt water, and good-bye to 
land! 

All. Hurrah! 

Capt. Henderson. Well then, boys, look out for a rare 
opportunity to make use of your valor. We are to sail for 
the Straits of Simonoska. As you well know, boys, these 
straits have been of late blockaded by the Tycoon, and the 
allied forces of England, France and America have deter- 
mined on re-opening them. When the cannon-shot to-night 
announces the " Mad Anthony " loosed from her moorings in 
the New York Bay, receive the sound of its booming as the 
key-note to our sure victory in the Japanese seas. The brav- 
est Zouaves who ever trod the deck of an American man-of-war, 
embark with us to-night. Whoever plants the United States 
flag on the Forts of Takee will win a name to be handed 
down to posterity. Clear consciences, boys, and stout hearts! 
Remember the pirates in those seas, boys! Remember, too, 
that the " Mad Anthony " has never known, and shall never 
know, defeat! Three cheers for the "Mad Anthony!" (All 
cheer vociferously. Exeunt Sailors, r. Enter Gen. Wat- 
son with the Zouaves, l. u. e., who go through their 
military evolutions.) 

Gen. Watson. The duties of a warrior, my brave 
marines, are stern, but lofty. So long as human passions 
exist, and national governments are subject to the rapacity of 
aggressive powers, on the one hand, or to the selfishness of 
corrupt and ultra-conservative powers, refusing the accession 
of a healthy commercial interchange, on the other, — so long will 
the steady nerve, the brave heart and the clear head of the 
true soldier remain the strongest protection of our national 
prosperity. We embark to-day in defence of our commercial 
rights in the ports of Japan. History alone will tell the im- 
portance of our enterprise in the enlightenment of that ego- 
tistic and idolatrous empire. Our duty is before us, boys. It 
is to give our lives for our country. Are you ready, my men ? 

Several Voices. Yes, sir! ready, sir! Hurrah for 
the General ! Three cheers for the expedition ! ( Cheering. ) 
(Exeunt Gen. Watson and Zouaves, r. u. e.) 



34 



THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 



(Enter Mr. Martin, l. 2 e., with his wheelbarrow. Slow 

music. ) 

Mr. Martin {heaving a deep sigh). A heavy heart 
makes a heavy load even of an empty wheelbarrow. {Enter 
Tightfist in the background, r.) But, never mind! Never 
mind! Let every step be a De frofundis for my poor Ellen, 
God rest her soul! and may be we shall meet in heaven all 
the sooner. {Exit, r. 2 E.j 

Tightfist {coming forward). The old fellow takes to 
his wheelbarrow as naturally as a duck takes to water. Un- 
doubtedly, it is better for him. His sons would only squander 
his money, if they had it. {Examines a large pile of bills.) 
Well, now, this is a pretty good haul for a little net, that's a 
fact; better than I expected. Now, then, how shall we in- 
vest? Union Pacific Railroad? That's just the thing. Yes: 
twenty-five thousand dollars will be a good capital to start on 
over in Omaha. It is easy to find some poor fellow hard- 
pushed in his purse, and to buy him out at a low figure. U. 
P. R. R. {thoughtfully) will be making quick profits without 
much risk. Might invest in cotton, but the great crash may 
come sooner than we think. There are the wild Kansas lands, 
too — but I have a good amount in those things already. U.P. 
R. R. is the spec, for me to-day. {Puts his money in vest 
pocket, buttons his coat, and exit, l. u. e. Enter Mr. Rich- 
ards, r.) 

Mr. Richards. Lack-a-day! this is a poor world to 
trust to {enter Alfred, l.) ! Poor Mr. Martin! A man is a 
prince to-day, and a pauper to-morrow. Poor Mr. Martin! 
He has seen his fortune lost, his wife buried, and his son 
ruined, just when the world said, " Mr. Martin is the happiest 
man alive !" This Tightfist, too, prowling around like a 
hungry hyena, with more money than he knows what to do 
with! Oh, he is only made the richer by my friend's misfor- 
tune! {Shaking his head incredulously.) Ah, if justice is 
always measured out in this world, I should hav e much doubt 
of its existence at all! 

Alfred {coming forward). Pardon me, sir, but I hear 
you speak of a certain Mr. Martin, and one Tightfist who has 
wronged him. I wish to know where this Tightfist is. I 



THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 35 

have a long score to settle with him, sir. The money he has 
wrenched from that honest man shall never do him any good. 
The wheedling old Shylock was the means of getting one of 
the noblest fellows in the world into trouble, and he shall an- 
swer for it, sir. 

Mr. Richards. Ah, you know them? 

Alfred. Yes, sir. I know Frederick and his father, and 
I shall defend them, too, sir. What is the use of standing by 
and seeing rascality triumph, when everybody would be the 
better with a little bravery? I should make myself party to 
the swindle, sir: I should make myself party to the swindle, 
if I did! 

Mr. Richards {looking very seriously'). Don't do any- 
thing rash, young man. You might do more harm than good. 
But that old broker was here a little while ago. I saw him 
going over that -way {pointing with his finger, L.). 

Alfred {starting eagerly forward). Don't exhort me! 
Cold-blooded meanness can walk right over us all, and if we 
turn to do a single act of justice, we are rash, forsooth. Yes, 
I will find Tightfist. I have heard the whole story, and have 
seen more than anybody else. Frederick shall be avenged 
{exit, l.), 

Mr. Richards {peering after Alfred). There's fire for 
you! Can't blame him much, though. Ah! here comes poor 
Martin. I will not tell of this excited youngster. {Enter 
Mr. Martin with a loaded wheelbarrow, R.) Good morn- 
ing, friend! Let me help you to unload. Fine morning! 

Mr. Martin {moodily'). Yes, I suppose so. {They un- 
load in silence. ) 

Mr. Richards {leading Mr. Martin to a bench, c). Let 
us talk a little while you rest. How is Angelo? 

Mr. Martin. He is well. He is a a good boy, too. He 
has a good place in a printing-office, and, after working hard 
all day, studies in the evening, and is up before daylight at 
his books again. He says our good Lord keeps him from 
getting sick, and I am sure he is right. But Frederick ! poor 
Frederick! he haunts me day and night. 

Mr. Richards. You get no news from him, I suppose? 

Mr. Martin. Not a word since his enlistment. 

Mr. Richards. He entered the navy, I believe? 

Mr. Martin. Yes, sir; a boy like him could not be shut 



36 THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 

up on the land with such a weight on his heart as he has to 
bear. The broad skies overhead, and the great ocean under 
his feet, would be all that would save him from madness. 

Mr. Richards. You think too much of the fellow. He 
does not deserve a thought from you. 

Mr. Martin. Oh, but the poor boy! I never knew him 
to do a mean act in all his life before this last fatal deed. He 
was always too generous. The fault was on my part; I should 
have taught him prudence. Tightfist is a consummate rogue. 
His artifice has made the poor boy rather a victim than a wil- 
ful offender. I am sure of this now, Mr. Richards. I wish I 
had not been so stern with Frederick. 

Mr. Richards. Well, if this is to you a consolation, enjoy 
it, if you will, but you would be much wiser to forget the 
wretch. 

Mr. Martin. But a father's heart! — a bereaved father's 
heart! Ah, sir, you know nothing about it, if you expect me 
to follow your advice. I forgive the boy a thousand times. 
But I must be back to the wharf for another load. {Exeunt 
Mr. Martin and Mr. Richards, l.) 

SCENE II. 

Street. 
{Enter Alfred, r., and Tightfist, l.) 

Alfred. Is your name Tightfist? 

Tightfist. Yes, sir, my name is Tightfist — J. J. A. Tight- 
fist, at your service! 

Alfred. A Wall-street broker? 

Tightfist. The same, sir. Do you wish to hire money? 
Alfred {furiously}. Not now. Do you know me, sir? 
Tightfist. I do not quite remember. I may have seen 
you, but you have the advantage at present. 

Alfred {sternly}. Yes, sir {laying his hand on Tight- 
fist's shoulder, and holding him at ami's length}, and I 
shall keep it in one way. But I will tell you who I am. I 
am the friend of Frederick Martin. I am his avenger, sir. 
I know how he fell into your clutches. I know of your loans, 
of your usury. Do you remember that day when you stood 
with him at the corner of Chatham and Broadway, and Fred- 



THE PRODIGAL, LAW STUDENT. 37 

erick feared he was running too deeply into debt? Do you 
remember your reply? You have branded yourself a liar, sir! 
an extortioner, a murderer, sir! You shall answer for it, 
Tightfist. I challenge you to prove yourself my master in 
contest. 

(Enter Harry, Foster, and Surgeon, r. u. e.) 

Tightfist. Don't be in a hurry, boy! 

Alfred. Yes, sir, I am in a hurry! Name your weapons! 
Choose your witnesses! We shall decide the matter on the 
spot! 

Tightfist. This is out of place, young man. If we are 
to fight a duel, let it be in order! 

Alfred. Ah, if you rob a man, sir, let it be in order! 
Come, sir! How shall it be, swords or pistols? Call your 
friend. I will have no delay. 

Tightfist. Watch! watch! Call the police, young men! 
This fellow means to murder me! 

Alfred. Call your friend, I say! There is no alternative 
but to fight. 

Tightfist. I have no frielid. Let me out! 

Alfred. You have no friend because you never have 
deserved one. Come, will you fight with sword or pistol? 

Tightfist. Say, boy! take three thousand dollars — nay r 
take four, and let it end there. 

Alfred. Here, sir {showing the weapons}, make your 
choice! 

Tightfist. Swords, then, if you will have it! Come, sir, 
I will give you ten thousand dollars if you will let me off. 

Alfred. We want none of your money, you knave! 
Were you to offer two hundred millions, I would not look at 
it. I want to see the vile hand that has robbed the widow 
and the orphan; that has filched the earnings of honest toil; 
that has oppressed poverty and corrupted the integrity of 
youth — yes, sir, I want to see that hand defend itself, if it 
can. Come, Harry! Come, Foster! The swords! The 
swords! Give him the best one. I am not afraid. Stand by 
us, and see fair play ! ( The. swords are handed to them. The 
contest is adroitly carried on by both, and at length Tight- 
fist falls, mortally wounded.} 

Alfred {kneeling beside him). Well, Mr. Tightfist, I am 



38 THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 

ready to serve you. Animosity is at an end. How is his 
wound, doctor? 

Surgeon Rafter examining*). Fatal! He will live but a 
few moments. 

Alfred. If you want any help for your soul's good, Mr. 
Tightfist, you can have it! Whom shall 1 call? 

Tightfist. I am going to die! Die! did you say? Quick! 
quick! Go to my safe! My safe! Bring me my money! 
Oh! Oh! What shall I do? I am dvino-J Brinor me — 
bring me my papers! Bring me my money! Murder! 
Watch! watch! I am dying; bring me my money! Oh! 

Alfred. Do you want a clergyman ? 

Tightfist. Mv money — my money — my bonds — my 
mortgages! Say, boy, I have half a million in bonds in my 
safe! Will you get them? Quick! Quick! 

Harry. Have you any religious friend you would like 
to see before you die? 

Tightfist. Shut up with such nonsense, I tell you {all 
start away from him in fright). Keep the hypocrites away! 
My money! What do you want to frighten me for now? I 
won't die. What's that? What's that? Oh, they are chok- 
ing me! Those horrid creatures. Do you see? Oh, this is 
death! They have come for my money! They will drown 
me! They will plunge me in fire! Murder! help! help! 
I tell you to help me! Drive them off, why don't you? Oh, 
yes, there is retribution! [Dies.) 

(curtain.) 






THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 30 

ACT FOURTH. 

SCENE I. 

On the Wharf. Boston. 

{Clamorous crowds of Citizens — passing Newsboys — men 
reading papers — smoking, etc. ) 

ist Newsboy (shouts'). Herald ! Morning Herald ! 
Great victory in the Japanese sea! Defeat of the Tycoon! 
Herald! Morning Herald ! 

2D Newsboy {shouts). Latest news! The Straits of 
Simonoska opened! Flag of the United States waves from 
the Fort of Takee! Latest news! 

ist Newsboy (shouts). Herald ! Moi'ning Herald! 
Brilliant exploits of a young naval officer. Herald! Morn- 
ing Herald! 

ist Citizen. Did you read it, sir? did you read it? 
Trade is re-established in Yeddo. Our navy has distin- 
guished itself proudly in the face of the whole world. 

2D Citizen. Yes, this is good for us just now. Who is 
that young lieutenant everyone is talking about? He has 
performed prodigies in whipping the pirates. 

ist Citizen. Strange to say, I have not heard his name; 
or, if I have, I cannot recall it just now. He is a brave fel- 
low, that's all I have to say. At one time he was fairly in 
the clutches of a nest of them, and, to the surprise of every- 
one, he not only escaped without harm, but ended by seizing 
a most valuable prize, scattering the junks like a pack of 
whipped curs. 

2D Citizen. Good! good! He deserved to make his fort- 
une, just for his pluck. 

{Enter Mr. Martin and Mr. Richards, l. 2 e.) 

ist Newsboy (shouts). Arrival of the troops on this 
evening's steamer! Romantic adventures with the pirates! 
(Low tone) Herald, sir? 

2D Citizen. Japan has maintained her isolated position 
as much by the dangerous character of the pirates, as by the 
protection of her naval forces. 



40 THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 

ist Citizen. That's true, but she knows now who is her 
master. Hurrah ! for Uncle Sam. ( A boy stands in the centre 
of the scene, and whistles " Yankee Doodle ! " ) 

2D Citizen. Well, this is an era in our naval history. 
{Boy stops whistling to listen.') We will penetrate China 
next, and see the arrogant Celestials whipped. [Boy re-com- 
mences whistling.) 

Mr. Martin {coming forward). Did you say that our 
troops have beaten the Japanese? {Boy stops to listen.) 

2D Citizen. Exactly, sir. A grand victory, too. The 
pirates are chased, and " Young America " lionized all over 
Europe. 

Mr. Martin. And you are sure of it? (Mr. Richards 
draws nearer.) The expedition is successful? The Japanese 
expedition ? 

2D Citizen. Sure, sir? Of course, we are. 

Mr. Martin {turning to Mr. Richards). Do you hear 
that? I am glad to learn the success of this expedition, for I 
believe that my Frederick enlisted in this very one. {Boy be- 
gins whistling " Yankee Doodle! " again with all his might, 
dancing in time to his music.) 

Mr. Richards. Ah, is that so? But let us be off, a gale 
is approaching. {Thunder is heard. Exeunt?) 

SCENE II. 

The sea — a storm — flashes of lightning. 

{Same crowd of -people, with Harry and Foster.) 

Harry {with great animation). Here is a wild storm for 
you! Do you see there? Do you see there? A ship going 
down! Good heavens, what a sight! {All move to the side 
of stage, r., to ascend on rocks and watch the progress of the 
storm.) 

Foster {with a spy-glass). Oh! it is the Zouaves! What 
a pity ! See the poor creatures on the deck ! They are at the 
mercy of the storm. Poor fellows! Poor fellows! Would 
to God that we could help them ! 

{Enter Angelo, r. 2 e.) 

ist Citizen. What a pity! There is no hope! The very 
demons are in the storm! 



THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 4* 



Harry. Look at the great waves and the poor boat ! Do 
you hear the timbers creak? Do you hear the men shout? 
'Tis the most sublime sight! Oh, the poor Zouaves! Poor 
fellows! Ah, they will be lost after all. 

(There is a pause, and Angelo, in another fart of the 
scene, c, speaks with a mysterious tone, as if impressed with 
the idea that his brother is in the ship, and in danger.} 

Angelo. I hear a voice in the storm. Is it the bitter wail- 
ing of the wind, or is my Frederick calling on me? Oh, it is 
like his voice, as if he were dying! Frederick! Frederick t 
you are near me, I am sure of it. Is it true that you will be 
lost in the storm ? Oh, merciful God, have pity on my brother,, 
and save him! {He sings.) 

{Music taken from opera of" La Dame Blanche"'— Song 
of Jenny — " See yonder tower") 

The storm rages wild on the sea, 

And madly the vessels are tossed ; 
The waves have no pity on me, 

They howl like the souls of the lost. 
Where can my brave Frederick be? 

The demons his pathway have crossed. 
I tremble, I tremble : I know 

The poor ship in the storm must go down. 
The sea growls in thunders below, 

Above, the dark elements frown ; 
I tremble, I tremble ! I know 

His ship in the storm will go down. 

{Exit Angelo, r.) 

Harry {taking Foster's spy-glass). There comes 
another steamer! Hurrah! The ship, the ship will be saved! 
There are brave fellows on board. Zouaves! They are the 
boys who don't mind danger. Here, Foster, look through the 
glass. 

Foster. Yes, yes; there is an officer in the sinking ship r 
and a hero he is, too. Storms are worse than pirates, but 
they will get through. The life-boat is unlashed. Down she 
comes. She goes over the breakers like a swan. That officer 
has the rope. See! see him leap from the deck! The steamer 
is boarded. The ship is saved. Brave fellows ! Hurrah . 
Cheer them with cannon. {Great excitement— the crowd rush 
as if to the port, r. u. v.— the U. S.Jag is borne across the 
stage— in a moment a cannon is discharged to welcome the 
boats. ) 



42 THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 



SCENE III. 

The Wharf. 

{Enter Mr. Martin, r., with a loaded wheelbarrow. He un- 
loads. Enter Angelo, l., hand in hand with Frederick in 
the uniform of a naval officer. ) 

Angelo. (Gleefully.) I knew it was you — I was sure 
of it ! 

Frederick. Well, how have you been, this long time ? 

Angelo. First rate : only I was tired of waiting for you ! 
But I knew you would come back. I was just sure of it. Oh, 
but there is father ! 

Frederick. Where, Angelo ? where ? 

Angelo. Why, over there. Don't you see him unload- 
ing the wheelbarrow? 

Frederick (aside). My poor father! And he had to 
come to this! Indeed, it is too hard to believe! 

Angelo. Father! father! here is Frederick! 

Mr. Martin (turning to look). Frederick! Frederick! 
What do you mean, Angelo? 

Angelo. Frederick! Don't you see him, father? 

Frederick (rushes to his father's arms). My poor father, 
oh, forgive me! 

Mr. Martin. My son! my Frederick! (Presses him to 
his heart?) 

Frederick (falling on his knees before his father). My 
father, once more I beseech you to look upon the wretch who 
has so deeply injured you. With humble sorrow I confess 
my past guilt, and beg you to forgive me, as I trust God has. 
I ask with some confidence, father, because I have retrieved 
your lost fortune, and added to it a hundredfold. Do you for- 
give me, father? 

Mr. Martin (raising Frederick). God bless you, boy! 
If you had not a single cent I should forgive you all the 
same. I have only waited for this moment. You, too, my 
poor boy, have something to forgive. But is this you? (Holds 
him off, and looks at his uniform.) A lieutenant? 

Frederick. Yes, father. Heaven smiled on my earnest 
purpose to do right. I enlisted in the navy, gained the con- 



THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 43 

fidence of my superior officers, and received the honors you 
behold. In the papers you may have read of my success. We 
were fighting with the Japanese pirates. I was placed in 
charge of a dangerous defence, which resulted in a distin- 
guished triumph, and made me master of most magnificent 
prizes. Wealth I have, father; but better, dearer to me a 
thousand times, I have your forgiveness. Would to God that 
these could restore my mother to me, that she might know 
the sincerity of my repentance! 

Mr. Martin. Tut, tut, Frederick! Think you she does 
not know it? Yes, better than any of us. Now, now, my 
boy! That wall do! Not another tear! Then you are the 
young lieutenant we read about in the papers? Who could 
believe it? 

Angelo. Yes, father. My handsome brother Frederick 
is Lieutenant Martin. It is not wicked to be proud of him, 
— is it, father? 

Mr. Martin (overcome with astonishment). Well! well! 
well! 

SCENE IV. 

[Enter Sailors, r. Enter Zouaves, l. Drums roll. 
Loud cries of " Lieutenant Martin, the hero of the day ! 
The officer who conquered the ■pirates of Japan ! " Drttms 
roll — caps are tossed — officers wait upon Frederick with 
military formalities — cannons fred — drums roll — silence 
commanded.') 

Admiral Ross. Frederick Martin, — In my long naval 
experience never have I been called upon to perform a more 
gracious and agreeable duty. Spotless in fame, dauntless in 
danger, a true patriot and warrior, young in years but mature 
in valor, in consideration of the great national services ren- 
dered by you in the Straits of Japan, I am proud to announce, 
in the presence of the brave men who have learned to love 
you, that you are hereby promoted to the rank of Captain in 
the United States Navy. [Hands the parchment— drmns roll 
— caps are tossed.) 

Frederick. Thank you, my beloved commander, and you, 
my dear comrades, for your great kindness ! But if any little 
service I may have rendered has seemed to merit so great a 
reward, believe me, I rejoice more in having pleased my com- 



44 THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 

mander, served my country, and cheered the heart of my aged 
father, than in any emoluments to accrue therefrom to my- 
self. "Excelsior!" in the path of duty — that is my motto I 
{Drums roll.) 

Captain Henderson. And I, too, Admiral, have to 
unite my meed of praise to your own. But for the fearless 
gallantry of Captain Frederick Martin, my ship, her crew and 
cargo, would have perished. As a slight testimonial of his 
services, I make over to him one half the value of her cargo, 
begging him to accept it from one who rejoices in the honor 
of knowing so brave and generous an officer. (Cheering \ 
firing of cannon?) 

General Watson. Gallant officers and gentlemen: — 
So rarely do we fine consummate courage, virtue and skill 
united in one man, and especially in one so young as the 
brave recipient of our present homage, of our unbounded 
gratitude, I may say — I mean Captain Frederick Martin, of 
the United States Navy — that I cannot permit the present oc- 
casion to pass without warmly adverting to the heroic con- 
duct of this chivalrous young officer. Alike in his public and 
in his private career, he has ever stood, not alone above re- 
proach, but always worthy of distinguished honor. Unobtru- 
sive as his superiority is unquestionable, he has warded off the 
shafts of enmity. His sincerity, as much as his talent, has 
commanded your esteem. After his brilliant exploits in the 
Japanese sea, — the details of which it is unnecessary for me 
to repeat, as they are familiar, and have endeared him to every 
brave heart in the United States Navy, — besides tracing his 
title high on the tablet of glory, he has, by his singular ad- 
dress and presence of mind, reached the acme of human 
achievements. Comrades, Zouaves, to-day he has made every 
one of us his debtor forever! To him we owe our lives! In 
truth, at all times a superhuman hand seemed to guide him. 
During the utmost fury of the entire storm you beheld him 
always at the post of danger; not alone pushing forward the 
execution of every human means of rescue, but never losing 
sight for a moment of the Eternal and Omnipotent Being 
who bridles the whirlwind, and commands the sea. It is this 
Divine Being who has ever befriended him. Unselfish, 
thoughtful, magnanimous, and brave enough to fear God, we 
attribute our hero's success to these sublime traits. By so do- 
ing, we accord the highest praise of which we are capable 
to you, Captain Frederick Martin, the beloved and gener- 
ous deliverer of your devoted Zouaves! 



THE PRODIGAL LAW STUDENT. 



45 



Frederick. Be assured I accept this precious tribute with 
profound sentiments of grateful affection, and would gladly 
convey to you a sense of the high value placed by me upon 
your kind condescension. And you, my venerated, my be- 
loved father, who in my infancy implanted in my breast the 
love of justice and the spirit of true manliness, the praises be- 
stowed upon me I beg you to accept as more rightfully your 

own your just dues; and know, dear father, that the sacred 

memory of my mother, together with my love for you, next 
to my God and my country, have been my constant incentives. 

Mr. Martin. Ah! this is too happy a day for me. 
Well! well! well! 

Tableaux. 




PROLOGUE. 47 



PROLOGUE. 



A thoughtless youth, a college-boy at school, 

In reckless mirth expends his whole estate ; 
Forgets of prudence every kindly rule, 

And learns the penalties, alas ! too late. 
His mother dies heart-broken. Lo ! his sire, 

With age bent down, is forced to menial toil; 
And he, disowned, sees every joy expire, 

And leaves, for foreign shores, his native soil. 

The miser, who, from greed for gold, in truth, 

With usurious craft, had compassed Frederick's fall, 

Is slain in combat by an ardent youth, 

Despairs, and drinks Death's cup of endless gall. 

Frederick, our hero, deeply contrite, strong 
In might of virtuous and most pure intent, 

Achieves a name and fortune, and, ere long, 
His filial, eager steps are homeward bent. 

The aged father, pious, patient, firm 

In bearing his great grief, yearns for his son ; 

And pra> s the absence soon shall meet its term, — 
That his sad race of penance soon be run. 

God smiles on virtue, and at last we find 

The youth returned, by wealth, by honors, crowned ; 
Heightened each grace of body and of mind, 

" The dead's alive at last; the lost is found! " 
The father folds his Frederick to his breast, 

The son's bright laurels kiss the father's feet, 
Faults are forgotten : wrongs are all redressed, 

High purpose triumphs o'er the World's deceit. 

Our honored audience, should you behold 

Aught in our mimic of the Play of Life 
In virtue's ways the youthful heart to mould, 

To make us earnest in the coming strife. 
Should avarice appear a hideous thing, 

Should patience in affliction seem more fair, 
Should contrite tea's faith's glorious rainbow fling 

Across the clouds of penance, grief and care, 
In tranquil splendor, Heaven our work shall bless ; 

You will be satisfied with our essay, 
Our efforts crowned with the desired success, 

And all made better by our little Play. 



48 EPILOGUE. 



EPILOGUE. 



Thank you for your kind attention, 
And should you, in after day, 

Of our efforts e'er make mention, 
Treat us leniently, we pray. 

If, perchance, the due perfection 
We have not achieved in this, 

We shall seek to make correction, 
Nor advice shall take amiss. 

Have we pleased you, — we're delighted, 

And we shall in future aim 
To increase the hopes excited 

By our callow present fame. 

To the boys there is one moral 

From poor Phineas they may learn, — 

Should they seek to win the laurel, 
Wine and wassail they must spurn. 

Had our Frederick drowned his sorrows 
In the false and tempting bowl, 

Swift as flight of well-aimed arrow 
He had lost his noble soul. 

But, adieu! The benediction 

Of High Purpose, through the year, 

Rest on all, without restriction, 
Who to-night assemble here. 




Mi 



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